Lois Larson
Amsterdam Airport, also known as Schiphol, offers a wide range of alcoholic drinks for purchase. While the airport provides the convenience of a one-stop shop for travellers, the prices of alcohol may not always be the most affordable option. In fact, some sources suggest that online shops or local stores in Amsterdam offer better prices and a wider selection of alcoholic beverages. However, for travellers outside the European Union, the ability to reclaim VAT on purchases in the Netherlands can make a significant difference in the overall cost. Ultimately, the decision to purchase alcohol at Amsterdam Airport depends on individual preferences, travel plans, and price comparisons with other available options.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Availability of Alcohol | Amsterdam Airport (Schiphol) has a wide range of alcoholic drinks available |
| Duty-Free Alcohol | Alcohol is not duty-free for flights within the European Union |
| Price | Alcohol prices at Schiphol are considered high by some |
| VAT | Non-EU residents can reclaim VAT on purchases in the Netherlands |
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What You'll Learn
- Amsterdam Airport has a huge range of alcoholic drinks
- Alcohol prices at Schiphol are not considered cheap
- You can reclaim VAT on all purchases in the Netherlands if you reside outside the EU
- Alcohol is subject to tax and duties if your destination is within the EU
- Online shops in the Netherlands are cheaper than duty-free shops at Schiphol
Amsterdam Airport has a huge range of alcoholic drinks
Amsterdam Airport, also known as Schiphol, offers a wide variety of alcoholic drinks for travellers to purchase. While some sources claim that the prices at the airport are high, it is still possible to find good deals on alcohol. If you are a resident outside the European Union, you can reclaim VAT on all purchases in the Netherlands, including at the airport. This may make purchasing alcohol at the airport a more attractive option.
The selection of alcoholic drinks at Schiphol includes whisky, scotch, and liquor. For those with a taste for peated scotch, options include Ardbeg Uegy and Laga 10CS. If you're looking for something a little different, Laphroig PX 1 liter travel retail is a decent choice, although it may not be as good as the cask strength version. You can also find special releases from Port Charlotte and Octomore from Bruichladdic, which are sometimes cheaper than prices in the USA.
In addition to the airport, there are other options for purchasing alcohol in Amsterdam. Online shops in the Netherlands often offer lower prices and a wider selection than duty-free shops. For instance, websites like drankdozijn.nl offer great selections and next-day delivery. If you are staying near the airport, you can also visit a physical store. Gall&Gall, the largest liquor shop chain in the Netherlands, is about 40 minutes away from the airport by car. However, keep in mind that some sources indicate that their prices may be up to 20% higher than other stores.
When purchasing alcohol at Amsterdam Airport, it's important to consider your destination. If you are flying within the European Union, you will be required to pay taxes and duties on alcohol, which means paying the regular retail prices. In this case, you may find better deals by purchasing alcohol in town or at your final destination. However, if you are flying outside the European Union, you can take advantage of tax-free prices at the airport, which can offer a price advantage compared to other locations in the Netherlands.
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Alcohol prices at Schiphol are not considered cheap
Although Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport offers a wide range of alcoholic beverages, chocolates, cookies, and sweets, alcohol prices at Schiphol are not considered cheap. Several factors contribute to this perception of high prices.
Firstly, Schiphol Airport is a popular tourist hub, and prices at such locations are often inflated compared to other shops or websites. For instance, Gall & Gall, the largest liquor shop chain, has been observed to charge up to 20% more than other liquor stores in the country. Additionally, duty-free prices for alcohol at Schiphol may not always offer the best value. Online shops in the Netherlands tend to provide a broader selection of alcoholic beverages at more affordable prices. By ordering online, travellers can benefit from competitive prices and next-day delivery, ensuring they have their desired beverages before their trip.
Secondly, travellers flying within the European Union are required to pay regular retail prices for alcohol at Schiphol Airport. This is because duty-free exemptions do not apply to intra-EU flights. As a result, passengers travelling within the EU may find that alcohol prices at Schiphol are comparable to, or even higher than, regular retail prices in town or at their destination.
Thirdly, the tax and duty exemptions available at Schiphol Airport may not apply to all travellers or destinations. For example, Lithuania, an EU member state, does not permit duty-free sales. Therefore, travellers departing from Schiphol to an EU country like Lithuania are subject to paying taxes and duties on alcohol, making the prices no different from standard retail rates.
Lastly, the perception of high alcohol prices at Schiphol may be influenced by individual expectations and purchasing power. What constitutes "cheap" or "expensive" can vary significantly between individuals. Additionally, the specific brands or types of alcohol available at Schiphol may impact the perception of value for money. Certain special releases or rare expressions may be more expensive than what travellers are accustomed to in their home countries.
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You can reclaim VAT on all purchases in the Netherlands if you reside outside the EU
If you reside outside the EU, you can reclaim VAT on all purchases in the Netherlands, including Amsterdam Airport. This is because Amsterdam Airport offers duty-free prices, which means that you can buy goods at the tax-free prices applicable to flights outside the European Union, regardless of your destination. However, liquor and tobacco are excluded from these tax-free prices, and you will be required to pay taxes and duties on these products.
To claim back VAT on other goods, you must meet certain conditions. Firstly, you must be able to provide proof of identity showing that your residence or usual place of residence is outside the EU. Secondly, you must be taking the goods with you in your personal luggage within three months of purchasing them. Finally, the total value of the goods on the invoice must be at least €50, including VAT.
There are two ways to apply for a VAT refund in the Netherlands: offline or online. If you choose to apply offline, you must ask Customs to sign your receipt when you leave the EU and check your eligibility for a VAT refund. You will then need to send the signed invoice to the retailer or your tax refund intermediary. If you choose to apply online, you should download the 'NL Customs VAT' app before your arrival in the Netherlands. You will then need to ask the retailer to issue the invoice in your name and register it digitally immediately after purchase. It is worth noting that some retailers in the Netherlands are not yet ready for the digital VAT reclaim process, in which case you will need to claim VAT offline.
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Alcohol is subject to tax and duties if your destination is within the EU
Alcohol prices in Amsterdam Airport are cheaper than in other locations in the Netherlands, regardless of your destination. However, liquor and tobacco are exceptions to this, as you are required to pay taxes and duties on these products. This means that you will be paying the regular retail price for alcohol in the airport.
If your destination is within the EU, alcohol is subject to tax and duties. The EU has specific rules for the taxation of alcohol, and EU countries must levy the same rate of duty within each category of drink. The excise duty on alcohol is based on the number of hectolitres/degrees Plato or the number of hectolitres/degrees of alcohol by volume of the finished product. The rate of duty per hectolitre of pure alcohol is currently €958.94, although there are lower rates for special craft distilling and harvesting schemes. The duty rate is lower in the Canary Islands.
EU countries can apply reduced rates of excise duty to certain alcoholic products. For instance, a reduced rate can be applied to wine and other fermented drinks with a maximum alcoholic strength of 8.5% volume. Similarly, a reduced rate can be applied to intermediate products with a maximum alcoholic strength of 15% volume, as long as the rate is not more than 40% below the standard national rate. Beer with an alcoholic strength of 2.8% or lower may also be subject to a reduced rate of duty. Additionally, reduced rates may be applied to ethanol produced by small distilleries that produce up to 10 hl of pure alcohol per year, as long as it is not more than 50% below the standard national rate of excise duty.
The taxation of alcohol is an effective approach to address the societal burden of alcohol and is listed by the World Health Organization as a 'best buy' policy. It is also important to recognize that alcohol taxation raises revenue in addition to serving any public health purpose.
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Online shops in the Netherlands are cheaper than duty-free shops at Schiphol
While Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam offers a wide range of alcoholic drinks, it may not be the most cost-effective option for travellers looking to purchase alcohol. In fact, online shops in the Netherlands are often cheaper than duty-free shops at the airport.
Firstly, it is important to note that duty-free prices at Schiphol Airport may not always be advantageous for alcohol purchases. Those travelling within the European Union are required to pay taxes and duties on alcohol, which means paying the regular retail prices. This negates any potential duty-free savings.
Secondly, online shops in the Netherlands offer competitive prices and a wider selection of alcoholic beverages. For example, websites like drankdozijn.nl are known for having lower prices than physical stores, including duty-free shops. Additionally, online shops may offer exclusive deals and discounts that are not available at the airport.
Moreover, by shopping online, travellers can compare prices and make informed decisions without the time constraints of airport shopping. This allows for a more thorough evaluation of different brands, sizes, and types of alcohol, ensuring that travellers find the best value for their money.
Lastly, for those who are not in a rush, online shops often provide the convenience of home delivery or the option to pick up purchases at a later date. This eliminates the hassle of carrying additional items during travel and ensures that travellers can pack their purchases securely, especially when dealing with fragile items like bottles.
In conclusion, while Schiphol Airport offers the convenience of last-minute shopping, online shops in the Netherlands are generally cheaper and provide a broader selection of alcoholic beverages. Travellers can benefit from price comparisons, exclusive deals, and the convenience of home delivery or pick-up options by planning their purchases in advance. Therefore, for cost-conscious travellers, exploring online options is a more financially prudent approach than solely relying on duty-free shops at Schiphol Airport.
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Frequently asked questions
Alcohol at Amsterdam Airport is generally not considered to be cheap. However, it is still possible to purchase alcohol at tax-free prices, which may be cheaper than some other locations in the Netherlands.
It depends. Some people claim that alcohol in the city of Amsterdam can be cheaper than at the airport. However, others suggest that certain shops in the city may charge more than the airport.
It depends on the country. If you are travelling within the European Union, you will have to pay regular retail prices for alcohol at the airport. These prices may be higher than in some other countries.
Yes, but it depends on the country. If you are travelling to a country outside the European Union, you can buy alcohol at tax-free prices. However, if you are travelling within the European Union, you will have to pay taxes and duties on alcohol.
It depends on your preferences. Some people suggest that the airport may have decent options for certain types of alcohol, such as Laphroig PX 1-liter travel retail or special releases from Port Charlotte. However, others claim that the airport's duty-free prices are generally not worth it.
